This beautiful, mountainous village, at about 47km from Volos, was built in a very inspiring area. It is the biggest village in Pelion and was very prosperous and wealthy during the 17th and 18th centuries. Here one of the main occupations was the production of silk, which gave a big push to the development of factories. This in turn began trading by sea from the port of Horefto, which led to the village becoming wealthy. Evidence of this vast wealth can be seen in the many mansions in the village.
Today the locals live on farming and cultivating apple and pear trees. Apples and pears from Pelion constitute the main Greek export market all over the world.
In the 18th century, Zagora was the largest centre of culture in Pelion. You must visit the old school of "Rigas" (1777) or the "Greekmuseum" as it was later named. It is known as the oldest school in Pelion. Many famous Greeks studied here, such as Rigas Ferreos (leader of the Greek Revolution ), Anthimos Gazis, Grigoris Konstantas and Kallinikos Lapatis (Patriarch of Constatinople).
You must also visit the famous library of Zagora, where there are 15,000 old books. You will also be impressed with the traditional architecture of the old houses together with the cobbled paths and traditional mansions.
The impressive churches of Agia Paraskevi (1803), Agios Gergios (St.George) (1765) and Agia Kiriaki (1740) are decorated with striking golden sculptured icons.
In early September, the female corporation of Zagora organises the festival of the "Apple", which includes dance and food. You can go swimming to the beautiful beach of Horefto, or Agioi Saranta if you prefer a quieter beach.. You will find a lot of tavernas and restaurants offering you an excellent taste of the unique Pelion cuisine.
WHERE TO STAY
Information collected from Around Pelion

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